Shoulder Replacement is one of the Key Specializations of Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon Dr. AB Govindaraj

Trusted and most recognized Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon Dr. AB Govindaraj had undergone surgical training at different reputed healthcare institutions abroad. Serving for more than 35 years, he gained expertise in joint replacement surgeries. He is privileged to receive special training under eminent and world-renowned Joint replacement surgeons Dr. John Ireland and Dr of medicine Henry Halm from Muenster University Hospital, Germany. He completed MBBS from Thanjavur Medical College, and MS from Government General Hospital, Chennai. His special interest lies in the treatment of Shoulder and hip replacement, Instrumentation spine surgery, Single sitting bilateral total knee replacement. He is working with MGM Healthcare, Chennai.

Shoulder Replacement

Among all the other joints, the Shoulder is the one that has a great range of motion. Due to any injury, arthritis, and overuse the cartilage in the shoulder joint degenerates, leading to pain, weakness, and decreased range of motion. To relieve mobility and reduce pain, shoulder replacement will be suggested by your Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon. Some other condition that requires shoulder replacement are:

• Osteoarthritis- Common arthritis in older people that occurs when the cartilage that pads bones wear away.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - When your immune system mistakenly attacks your joints, causing pain and inflammation.
• Avascular necrosis - When loss of blood to a bone occurs, causing damage and pain in the shoulder joint.
• A broken shoulder - Badly broken shoulder bone needs a shoulder replacement to repair it.

This surgery is likely to be ineffective with people having obesity, depression, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease.

Symptoms of Shoulder discomfort

• Weakness or loss of motion in the shoulder
• Severe pain in the shoulder that interferes with everyday life
• Pain while resting or during sleep
• Little or no improvement after trying therapies, medications, injections

Prior Preparations for the Surgery

A complete physical examination will be required by your doctor to determine that you are healthy enough for the procedure. You will also have to stop certain medications that include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, blood thinners, and arthritis therapies. You’ll probably be in the hospital for two or three days after surgery. Driving won’t be recommended until regaining normal motion and strength in your shoulder. Make prior arrangements for someone to take you home from the hospital. Most people require some assistance for about a month after the surgery. Ensure you have a helping hand for the same. 

The Procedure

It takes two to three hours for the procedure to complete. General or regional anesthesia will be given to you. During the surgery, the damaged joint ball also known as the humeral head of the shoulder will be replaced with a metal ball. A plastic surface known as a glenoid will be placed on the socket of the shoulder. The socket is a small part of the shoulder blade. Sometimes a partial replacement is required that involves only the replacement of the ball of the joint. 

Recovery after the procedure

Shoulder Replacement is major surgery, so you are likely to feel some pain during the recovery. Pain relievers will be injected after the procedure. To ease the discomfort oral drugs will also be provided to you. Rehabilitation starts on the same day of the surgery. Health care staff will help you move as soon as possible. When discharged in few days, you will be given a sling to wear for about two to four weeks. For a month after the surgery be prepared to have less arm function. Make sure you don’t lift heavy objects. Your doctor will recommend you few exercises that will help you gain strength.

Take away

Experts estimate that a shoulder replacement surgery lasts for 15 to 20 years. Many people have experienced relief after this. It is considered safe and is an effective option to get rid of the pain. You can resume your normal activities very soon. Many people still feel scared and have many misconceptions related to the surgery. Your doctor is the best adviser for this. Consult and know how this surgery is going to ease you if you are facing any related symptoms.